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Program Manager Defense Jobs in Bristol, CT (NOW HIRING)

Senior Program Analyst, EVMS

Windsor Locks, CT

$112K - $113K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense. The Senior Program Analyst is part of the Earned Value Management System (EVMS) team. You will conduct business plans, EV (Earned Value ...

Senior Program Analyst, EVMS

Windsor, CT · On-site

$115K - $116K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense. The Senior Program Analyst is part of the Earned Value Management System (EVMS) team. You will conduct business plans, EV (Earned Value ...

Showing results 41-60

Program Manager Defense information

See Bristol, CT salary details

$38.6K

$107.6K

$157.2K

How much do program manager defense jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager defense in Bristol, CT is $107,604.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,600.00 and $132,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a program manager defense?

A Program Manager in Defense is responsible for overseeing and coordinating large-scale defense projects, which may involve military equipment, technology systems, or defense-related services. They ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and meet all specified requirements and regulations. This role often includes working with cross-functional teams, managing contracts, and liaising with government agencies or military branches. Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills are essential, as is a thorough understanding of defense industry standards and protocols.

What is the difference between Program Manager Defense vs Project Manager Defense?

AspectProgram Manager DefenseProject Manager Defense
ResponsibilitiesOversees multiple related projects, strategic planning, and overall program successManages individual projects, ensuring specific objectives are met within scope, time, and budget
CertificationsTypically PMP, PgMP, or similar certificationsUsually PMP or CAPM certifications
Work EnvironmentOften in defense contractors, government agencies, or military settingsSimilar environments, focusing on specific project deliverables
FocusStrategic coordination and long-term goalsTactical execution of individual projects

While both roles require project management skills and certifications like PMP, the Program Manager Defense oversees multiple projects and aligns them with strategic objectives, whereas the Project Manager Defense focuses on managing specific projects to meet immediate goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a program manager defense?

To thrive as a Program Manager in Defense, you need a strong background in project management, defense acquisition processes, and often a relevant degree such as engineering or business, with security clearance frequently required. Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Project, Earned Value Management Systems (EVMS), and DoD-specific platforms, as well as certifications like PMP or DAWIA, are typically expected. Exceptional leadership, negotiation, and communication skills set top performers apart by enabling them to manage diverse teams and stakeholders. These skills and qualifications ensure effective project execution, compliance with defense regulations, and successful delivery of critical programs within scope, budget, and timeline.

What are some common challenges a program manager defense faces when coordinating multidisciplinary teams?

Program Managers in the defense industry often encounter challenges such as balancing strict security requirements with timely project delivery, managing cross-functional teams that include engineers, analysts, and government stakeholders, and ensuring alignment with evolving defense regulations. Navigating complex stakeholder expectations and adapting to shifting project scopes are also frequent hurdles. Successful Program Managers proactively foster communication across teams and maintain detailed project documentation to address these challenges.

What job categories do people searching Program Manager Defense jobs in Bristol, CT look for?

The top searched job categories for Program Manager Defense jobs in Bristol, CT are:

What cities near Bristol, CT are hiring for Program Manager Defense jobs?

Cities near Bristol, CT with the most Program Manager Defense job openings:

Infographic showing various Program Manager Defense job openings in Bristol, CT as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,604 per year, or $51.7 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

This opportunity is located within our Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense Company business, a global leader of mission-critical hardware and systems solutions including precision energetics systems and innovative explosive solutions.Click here to learn more.

Job Description

Job Description

EBAD seeks an accomplished engineer for the position Development Engineer, reporting to the Product Development Lead- Defense Systems. This group supports both EBAD's Warfighter and Missile Systems market segments, developing initiation, demolition, breaching, vehicle protection, and warhead solutions for military forces around the globe. The position can be located in either Simsbury, CT or Graham, KY.

Responsibilities:

The Development Engineer is the technical lead on projects and is responsible for technical aspects of the product design from concept through development, qualification and production. The Development Engineer will perform conceptual development and modeling of energetic components and systems, ensuring product designs meet the customer requirements.

Responsibilities include:

  • Create 3D conceptual models to meet design requirements
  • Select material specifications to meet environmental requirements
  • Perform design trade studies, hand calculations, and tolerance studies to ensure design fidelity
  • Interact with customers on design, interface and functional details
  • Interact with suppliers to rapid prototype parts for risk reduction and prototype testing
  • Participate in problem solving and failure analysis activities
  • Requirements generation, allocation and flow down
  • Technical compliance and risk assessment/management
  • Coordination of project team technical tasks
  • Cost estimating and management for both proposal and program activity
  • Leading the project throughout the product development life cycle
  • Additional duties include coordination with other departments to ensure the production viability of new designs, creation of the required documentation, and internal and customer approval for this documentation.

Requirements:

The successful candidate must have a BS/MS in an engineering discipline (Chemical or Mechanical preferred) and a minimum of 4 years of experience in product design of defense and/or aerospace products.

Required experience includes:

  • Ability to apply customer requirements and government/military specifications to new product designs
  • Demonstrated experience generating 3D solid models & 2D drawings (SolidWorks preferred)
  • Capable of applying GD&T, and understanding how it affects part cost and manufacturing
  • Strong written, verbal and presentation skills for interaction with various levels of management and customers
  • Proven ability to interpret and analyze mechanical, chemical and/or electrical specification requirements and data
  • Demonstrated competency in problem solving and root cause analysis
  • Must have or be able to obtain a U.S Department of Defense (DoD) security clearance
  • Must be a U.S or naturalized Citizen capable of working on U.S. DoD and ITAR restricted products.
  • Must be willing to travel up to 50% of the time (if located in CT facility)

Preferred Skills:

  • Knowledge of explosive materials and energetic devices
  • Experience with product development, rapid prototyping, and manufacturing processes
  • Experience with all Microsoft Office tools including MS Project
  • ANSYS and Solid Works experience

Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, national origin, or veteran status.